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Brazil Eliminated by Norway, Neymar Announces Retirement After FIFA World Cup 2026 Exit

Brazil's pursuit of a record sixth FIFA  World Cup title came to a disappointing end after Norway secured a memorable 2-1 victory in the Round of 16, sending the South American giants crashing out of the FIFA World Cup 2026. The result also marked the end of an era as Brazilian football icon Junior Neymar officially announced his retirement from international football following the defeat.

The dramatic knockout clash, played at New Jersey Stadium on Monday, produced one of the biggest upsets of the tournament. Norway's talisman Erling Haaland delivered a match-winning performance by scoring both goals, while Neymar netted Brazil's only goal from the penalty spot.

Norway Reach Historic FIFA World Cup Quarterfinal

The victory sends Norway into the FIFA World Cup quarterfinals for the first time in the nation's history. The Scandinavian side will now await the winner of the highly anticipated Round of 16 clash between England and Mexico.

Norway displayed discipline, resilience and clinical finishing throughout the contest, successfully containing Brazil's attacking threats before Haaland's brilliance proved decisive.

Neymar Ends Glittering Brazil Career

Shortly after Brazil's elimination, 34-year-old Junior Neymar confirmed that he had played his final match for the Brazilian national team.

Reflecting on his international journey, Neymar said he had given everything for Brazil and felt emotional that both his debut and farewell came at the same stadium in New Jersey. He first represented Brazil at the senior level against the United States in 2010 when the venue was known as MetLife Stadium.

The veteran forward endured another injury-hit campaign, limiting him to only two appearances during the tournament. Against Norway, he entered after halftime and converted a penalty, but his goal was not enough to keep Brazil's World Cup hopes alive.

Marquinhos Calls for Support for Brazil's New Generation

Brazil captain Marquinhos acknowledged that the national team is entering a period of transition following Neymar's retirement.

 

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He urged supporters to stand behind the country's emerging footballers, expressing confidence that Brazil's next generation has the talent to restore the team's dominance on the global stage.

Portugal vs Spain Headlines FIFA World Cup Round of 16

Attention now shifts to another blockbuster knockout encounter as Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal prepare to face Spain in one of the most anticipated matches of the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Their previous World Cup meeting came in Russia in 2018, ending in a thrilling 3-3 draw that featured Ronaldo's unforgettable hat-trick.

 

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Ronaldo has carried excellent form into the knockout phase, scoring three goals during the tournament. The Portugal-Spain Round of 16 match is scheduled to kick off at Dallas Stadium at 12:30 AM IST.

USA Face Belgium in Another Knockout Battle

Hosts United States will also be in action as they take on Belgium in another crucial Round of 16 fixture. The match will begin at Seattle Stadium at 5:30 AM IST, with both nations aiming to secure a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinals.

 

 

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